Hearty Oatmeal Bread

Hearty Oatmeal Bread Recipe with Caraway Seeds | Ingredients: Flour, Milk, Margarine, Yeast, Oats

Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 16

Introduction

Hearty oatmeal bread is a delicious and nutritious bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This bread is packed with oats, which add a hearty texture and a nutty flavor. It is easy to make and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Oatmeal bread has been a staple in many households for centuries. Oats have long been a popular grain in many cultures, and oatmeal bread is a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of oats in a different form. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite among many families.

Ingredients

5.25 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cup flour (use as needed)
1 tsp salt
2.25 cups milk
0.25 cup margarine or butter
0.25 cup sugar
2 envelopes active dry yeast or 2 tbsp active dry yeast
2 cups quick cooking oats
1 tbsp caraway seeds

How to prepare

Stir together 2 cups of flour and the salt in a large bowl.
Heat the milk, margarine, and sugar together over low heat until the margarine is soft.
Add the liquid to the flour.
Beat for 2 minutes on medium speed of an electric mixer or 300 strokes by hand.
Combine 1 cup of flour and the yeast.
Add to the batter.
Beat for 2 minutes on medium speed or 300 strokes by hand.
Stir in the oats and caraway with a wooden spoon.
Stir in enough additional flour to make a stiff dough.
Turn out onto a floured board.
Knead until smooth, 8 to 10 minutes.
Place in a greased large bowl.
Brush the top with vegetable oil.
Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place until double in size, about 1 hour.
Punch the dough down.
Divide it in half and shape to form two loaves.
Place in two greased 8.5" x 4.5" loaf pans.
Brush with melted margarine or butter.
Cover and let rise until nearly double in size, about 1 hour.
When almost doubled, preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Bake for about 40 minutes or until brown.
Cool before slicing.

Variations

Add raisins or dried cranberries for a sweeter version of oatmeal bread.
Mix in nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough until smooth to ensure a light and fluffy bread.

- Let the dough rise in a warm place to help activate the yeast and create a soft and airy texture.

- Brushing the top of the dough with vegetable oil before rising will help prevent it from drying out.

- Be sure to cool the bread completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.

Serving Suggestions

Hearty oatmeal bread is delicious on its own or toasted with butter or jam. It also pairs well with soups, salads, and sandwiches for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough until smooth is essential for a light and fluffy bread.

- Letting the dough rise in a warm place helps activate the yeast and create a soft texture.

- Baking the bread at the right temperature ensures even cooking and a golden brown crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar for a natural sweetener.

- Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Hearty oatmeal bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the bread and arrange it on a platter with fresh fruit and cheese for a beautiful and delicious appetizer. You can also toast the bread and serve it with a variety of spreads for a tasty snack.

Pairing Recommendations

Hearty oatmeal bread pairs well with soups, salads, and sandwiches. It also goes well with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover hearty oatmeal bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toast the bread in a toaster or oven until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of hearty oatmeal bread contains approximately 200 calories. This bread is a satisfying and filling option for a nutritious meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of hearty oatmeal bread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Each serving of hearty oatmeal bread contains approximately 5 grams of fat. The fats in this bread come from the butter and margarine used in the recipe.

Proteins

Each serving of hearty oatmeal bread contains approximately 6 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is important for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Hearty oatmeal bread is a good source of iron, magnesium, and zinc. These minerals are important for various bodily functions, including energy production and immune system support.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming this bread.

Summary

Hearty oatmeal bread is a nutritious and delicious option for a meal or snack. It is packed with carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Hearty oatmeal bread is a delicious and nutritious option for a meal or snack. Packed with oats, this bread is hearty and flavorful, making it a favorite among many families. Enjoy this bread on its own or paired with your favorite toppings for a satisfying and delicious treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of red and gold, and the air was crisp with the promise of winter. I had just returned from a visit to the local farmer's market, where I had picked up a bag of hearty oats from a friendly farmer named Mr. Johnson.

As I unpacked my groceries, I couldn't help but admire the beautiful, plump oats. They looked so wholesome and comforting, and I knew I had to find a special recipe to showcase their deliciousness. That's when I remembered an old cookbook that my dear friend Margaret had given me years ago. Tucked away on a dusty shelf, I found the book and began flipping through the pages, until I stumbled upon a recipe for Hearty Oatmeal Bread.

I had never made bread before, but something about this recipe called to me. It was simple, yet hearty and comforting - just the kind of bread I wanted to bake on a cozy autumn day. So, I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. The dough came together easily, and as I kneaded it with my hands, I could feel the warmth and love that would soon be baked into the loaf.

As the bread baked in the oven, the heavenly aroma of oats and yeast filled my kitchen, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. When the timer finally beeped, I opened the oven to reveal a beautiful golden loaf of bread, with a crunchy crust and a soft, pillowy interior. I couldn't resist tearing off a piece and slathering it with butter - the taste was pure perfection.

From that day on, Hearty Oatmeal Bread became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and whenever I wanted to bring a little warmth and comfort into my home. Each time I baked it, I remembered that chilly autumn day when I discovered the recipe, and I felt grateful for the simple pleasures that food can bring.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a handful of nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor, or experimenting with different types of flour. But the heart of the recipe has remained the same - hearty oats, warm yeast, and a touch of love. It's a recipe that has brought me joy and comfort, and I know it will continue to do so for years to come.

As I sit here now, with a fresh loaf of Hearty Oatmeal Bread cooling on the kitchen counter, I can't help but smile. The recipe may have come from a cookbook, but the memories and emotions it evokes are all my own. And that, to me, is the true magic of cooking - the ability to create something delicious and meaningful with just a few simple ingredients and a whole lot of love.